Some Aspects of the Turbulent Stable Boundary Layer

Abstract

We consider the structure of the stable boundary layer using the concept of local scaling. In this scaling approach turbulence variables, non-dimensionalized with measurements taken at the same height, can be expressed as a function of a single parameter z/Λ, where z is the height and Λ a local Obukhov length. One of the consequences is that locally scaled variables become constant above the surface layer. This behavior is illustrated with observations of the Richardson number. With local scaling as a closure hypothesis we then formulate a model of the stable boundary layer. Its solution for steady-state conditions is given. One result we obtain is the well-known Zilitinkevich equation for the boundary-layer height. A comparison of this equation with observations results in a reasonable agreement. Also we discuss some alternative expressions for the stable boundary-layer height and compare them with observations. Another result of our model is an explicit profile for the K-coefficient as a quadratic function of height. We discuss the consequences of this expression for the dispersion of a point source emission. We find that the time scale of diffusion in this case is about 5 hours.

Nieuwstadt, F.T.M.: 1984b, ‘A model for the stationary, stable boundary layer’, Proceedings of the conference on Models of Turbulence and Diffusion in Stably Stratified Regions of the Natural Environment, March 1983, Cambridge.Google Scholar